Advice greatly appreciated

[Ivan Burley]

Recently I leased my first rental unit. The tenant moved in in the middle of the month of February. Right out of the gate she was unable to pay rent for March until half way through the month. I was understanding due to the fact that she had recently paid the one months rent deposit as well as the prorated rent for February. Now in April she once again was unable to pay the until the 13th. Not only was she late but this time she was short $295 including the late fee.

I sense a theme here and I would like to nip this thing in the bud. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can handle this problem? She is two months into a 12 month lease. She says she will pay the balance on the 26th. Which leads me to believe that come the 1st, the cycle continues. I'm trying to work with this lady but at the same time I have obligations myself. After all this is a business not a charity.